DMS Posts, Other, PAYE, Tax

Inside and outside IR35: What you need to know

Debonair Management Services Limted

With rules set to change in the private sector from 6 April 2021, it’s important to understand what implications this might have on your contracts and tax bills.

The responsibility for determining your status in the private sector will shift to your client, if they are eligible. If you believe you are outside IR35, you’ll need to ensure your freelance contract and working practices clearly demonstrate your relationship as a contractor.

What’s the difference between inside IR35 and outside IR35?

Your status impacts the employment taxes you will pay.

Inside IR35
  • You pay the same tax and National Insurance as you would if you were an employee. 
  • You are only an employee for tax purposes, you have no employment rights.
  • Your client will be required to pay the necessary tax and NIC, which includes Employers’ NIC and the apprenticeship Levy where applicable.
Outside IR35
  • Nothing changes. You are paid a flat fee as normal and are responsible for managing your own taxes.

How and who pays the appropriate taxes largely depends upon a number of key factors: control over how the work is done, whether your personal service is required and mutuality of obligation. However, how you are set up in business can also be an influencing factor.

Not sure whether your contract is inside or outside?

You can check your employment status for tax using this tool from HMRC

Having a tax specialist review your contract can give you peace of mind. FSB members have access to a contract review service, for an additional fixed fee.

My last contract was outside IR35, but this one is inside?

IR35 applies on a contract by contract basis, so your status may differ depending on the contract agreed.

To remain compliant, you’ll want to brush up on your understanding of the new rules in the private sector.

If you don’t agree with your client’s decision about your employment status the legislation gives you the right to submit a written challenge to the Status Determination Statement and requires the end client to respond within 45 days to further explain their reasoning.

Published by Debonair Management Services Limted

Welcome Debonair Management Services Limited is a small, dynamic and personal firm of accountants, with a record over more than twenty five years of offering prompt, efficient service and useful advice. Our services range from bookkeeping to the preparation of year end accounts for sole traders, partnerships and small limited companies. We specialise in the setup of SAGE computerised accounting systems and offer full support to our clients. Above all else we pride ourselves on our friendly, approachable service, our constructive solutions to client’s issues and our competitive fees.